With an emphasis strongly on simulation, Virtual Skipper 3 has plenty of merits to endear it to PC gamers. Not only is it one of the few titles to attempt recreating the feeling of sailing a yacht, it also has plenty up its sleeves to make it a good long term investment. Working through a well thought through interface, the initial emphasis is on getting you up and sailing. That's not too tricky, and the learning curve is gentle enough to keep you interested despite the game's challenges. Where the game really scores though is when you bring in the competitive element. It plunges you into races across familiar and strongly realised stretches of water, drawing upon numerous skills. You'll need to plan your best route across the waters. You'll need to take account of wind speeds and water currents. And then you'll need to fight off a quality field of competitors. In short, there's a lot to take note of, and if you get into it, it'll eat time away with genuine ease. Because of that, Virtual Skipper 3 won't endear itself to all. It's hardly a pick-up-and-play kind of game, nor is it one that will appeal to those who require their gaming to be more arcade flavoured. Still, in this case it's all the better for it. For this is a deliberately serious, very enjoyable and--when on top form--utterly engrossing title. Graphically excellent, it's also a game that doesn't skimp on the multi-player options. In short, not only is it a strong sailing simulation, it's a quality title in its own right, and a very sound purchase too. --Simon Brew

Features:- Race people from all over the world in online regattas, team or private races- Several different boats and sails to choose from -- from the spinnaker to the Open 60, Genoa, and the fore staysail- The water in the simulation is simply incredible - It's modeled for dynamic movement with eddies, motes, wakes, ripples and whitewash- Become a true sailor, understanding the wind angle, polar speed, velocity made good, and efficiency- Participate in races using approved International Racing Federation rules